2015-10-18T17:00:43Z

Mike Doolittle: /* Materials for the LASER Cutter */

[[Category:FabLab Equipment]]
{{needs-update|details=THIS IS A DRAFT}}

== UNDER CONSTRUCTION ='

== About ==
[[File:Laser_cutter.jpg|480px|right]]

MakeICT uses a Rabbit Laser LASER Cutter Model QX1290 with a workbed of approx. 3' x 4'.

A LASER cutter allows users to take designs created on a computer and quickly cut them out using many different materials.

Designs are made using [http://www.inkscape.org Inkscape], an open-source vector graphics editor (other editors, such as [http://www.3ds.com/products-services/draftsight-cad-software/free-download/ Draftsight] and Adobe Illustrator, can be used as well).

LASER cutting is a great way to rapidly prototype projects.

MakeICT's LASER cutting machine was built by Rabbit Laser.

* Suggested reading: [http://www.noao.edu/safety/laser/Laser_Safety_for_Students_credit_to_Laser_Professionals.pdf Basics of Lasers and Laser Light]

== Classes ==
* Inkscape workshop - suggested
* [[Laser Cutter Basics Class]]

== LASER use policy ==

* You must take the [[LASER Cutter Basics Class]] to be approved to use the LASER cutter
* You must be a member

== LASER Cutter Specific Safety ==
LASER cutters pose a fire hazard. LASER cutters use a high intensity beam of LASER light that can produce extremely high temperatures as it comes into contact with the materials it is engraving, marking or cutting.

The LASER cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the LASER cutter are:
# '''ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS'''
# '''NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED'''
# '''NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE'''
# '''NEVER OVERRIDE THE LASER CUTTER SAFETIES'''
# '''KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT'''
## HIT the BIG RED button on the LASER control panel
## A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher is located next to the LASER cutter

Before starting the LASER cutter:
# Check the cooling solution window in the back of the chiller before starting any project.

After starting the LASER cutter:
# Before cutting make sure the air compressor and the fan motor are on.
# Refer to the cutting manual for appropriate engraving and cutting Power and Speed settings for varied materials.
# Beware of FLAMMABLE materials while using the machines.
# Certain materials are NOT ALLOWED in the LASER cutter including any PVC material, reflective materials
## See the '''DO NOT USE THESE MATERIALS''' section

== '''Materials for the LASER Cutter''' ==

See [[LASER Cutter Materials]] for teh list of BAD and good materials to use in the LASER cutter

== '''DO NOT USE THESE MATERIALS''' ==
*PVC
*VINYL
*CHLORINE BASED PRODUCTS
* see [[LASER Cutter Materials]] for the list of BAD and good materials to LASER cut
* List posted in LASER Cutter area

== Prepare your design ==
# Download and install [http://inkscape.org inkscape]
# Create your design using paths and objects (if you want an image, you must trace it)

== Prepare the LASER cutter ==

== Cut your design ==

== If something goes wrong during your print ==
# Hit the RED button

== Maintenance ==
'''Weekly mirror and lens cleaning is required by trained staff'''

Tips:
* The LASER cutter will generally not cut anything greater than 0.25” (6mm), anything thicker will require several passes.

'''THIS IS A DRAFT'''